Toyota builds full-scale Tonka truck

A full-scale Hilux Tonka truck has been created by Toyota Australia to mark the pick-up’s breakthrough in becoming the country’s best-selling vehicle in 2016.

The life-sized Tonka toy was designed, assembled and tested by engineers from Toyota Australia’s 150-strong product planning and development division. Product design chief Nicolas Hogios said the extreme style and capability of the Hilux Tonka Concept would capture the imagination of kids and adults alike. “We have taken Tonka out of the sand pit and reinvented Hilux from top to bottom and from nose to tail,” he said.

Underneath the black-and-yellow livery is a top-of-the-range production Hilux – an SR5 double cab with a 2.8-litre turbodiesel engine. The extensive makeover starts with substantially higher ground clearance – an increase in ride height of 150mm. Combined with a high-riding axle, heavy-duty suspension and 35-inch diameter tyres, the Hilux Tonka Concept is equipped to power over rugged terrain that would be off-limits to conventional off-roaders.

A new front bar is compatible with the vehicle’s safety systems while the bonnet has a carbon-fibre skin and features a “power bulge” and air scoops. High-performance off-road LED lighting in the bar and roof pod provide extra night vision for off-road trails, while a rugged bash plate made from 6mm-thick alloy guards the sump and other vital parts. Tubular side rails protect the body and chassis.

Behind the cabin the transformation includes a new carbon fibre-wrapped tailgate (released by a lightweight strap rather than handle), with an integrated spoiler and air vents. In the load deck, a removable tubular frame keeps all the gear in place, including fuel cans, while storage boxes house the recovery gear needed for extreme off-road driving. A fire extinguisher, axe, shovel and high-lift jack are also fitted.

To the end of February this year, Australians have bought more than 920,000 Hilux models - globally sales have topped 16 million. In 2016 the Hilux became the first non-passenger car to become Australia’s best-selling vehicle.